Chapter 634 Restoring Confidence
After my well-meaning reminder, Victoria, clearly worried about getting caught, kicked the door again and threw out a "Just you wait!" before storming off.
This time, I felt like I had scored a significant victory in my ongoing battle with Victoria, which made me pretty happy. I decided to celebrate with a drink since my face had healed without me even realizing it. I figured I could probably drink now.
Of course, I still had some doubts, so I messaged Ryan to check on my condition before drinking. To my surprise, Ryan immediately video-called me. Once connected, he asked me to point the camera at my face and examined me through the call. He finally told me that the previous restrictions were lifted, but I should still drink and engage in other activities in moderation for the next month to avoid any relapse.
I quickly nodded and promised, "I definitely won't overdo it, Ryan. Don't worry."
Could scars really come back? I found it hard to believe, but I absolutely didn't want to turn into a monster again. So, whether Ryan was joking or serious, I decided to take his advice to heart.
With the restrictions lifted, I rewarded myself with a glass of wine. It had been a while since I last drank, and tasting the alcohol again made me quite happy, prompting a satisfied sigh.
However, I didn't dare to drink too much. After a few sips, I happily went to bed.
Maybe it was the alcohol, but I slept in late the next day. After having lunch with Maria, I started getting dressed for the Aurora Glow grand opening.
Since I was going to compete with Victoria, I couldn't dress too plainly. I made a special trip to the largest mall in Everglade City to buy a formal dress. Although the quality wasn't as good as those from Couture Closet, it would have to do. I hadn't planned on attending any grand openings or parties when I came to Everglade City, so I didn't bring any appropriate clothes.
Of course, I didn't forget to buy a pair of high heels. I remembered Victoria standing on tiptoe for photos in the cafeteria, so I chose a pair of particularly high heels to ensure that even if Victoria wore heels, I would still be taller.
"How do I look?"
After putting on the dress, I spun around in front of Maria and asked.
Maria nodded enthusiastically, giving me a thumbs-up and praising, "Emily, you look stunning."
"Oh, like I didn't already know that," I replied with a playful eye roll, but I was secretly pleased.
When we arrived at Aurora Glow, the entrance was already bustling. A street dance team hired by Aurora Glow was performing to attract attention. I spotted Victoria at the entrance, and she clearly saw me too. Her triumphant smile made me a bit angry.
I couldn't help but glance at Maria, as if blaming her for my frustration. Maria looked puzzled, having no idea how she had offended me.
Soon, it was time for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Victoria played the role of the host and began inviting the guests to cut the ribbon. To my surprise, I was the first one called.
"Now, let's welcome our ribbon-cutting guest, Ms. Johnson from PrimeBuild Group."
PrimeBuild Group was the name of the company formed by five companies along with PowerWorks Group. Hearing my name, I was a bit taken aback. The first and last ribbon-cutting guests were usually quite prominent, and I didn't expect Victoria to give me such an important position.
But regardless, since I was called, I couldn't just stand there dumbfounded. I smiled, waved to everyone, and slowly walked towards the entrance.
"She's so beautiful. I wish I had even half her looks."
"I think she might be even prettier than Victoria."
I heard whispers from the crowd, and they filled me with pride. For a long time, I had been self-conscious about the scars on my face. Now, I could finally regain my confidence.